The Swansea Bay Summer 5k Series 2024 is returning for its 6th year. Organised by Paul Popham Running club, the 5k Series is a fun and competitive event that brings club runners and fund runners together, from the local running community of Swansea and surrounding areas.
Founded in February 2016, the Paul Popham Running Club – the affiliate club to Swansea charity, Popham Kidney Support – was established with the goal of helping Swansea residents embrace running for life. Starting with a programme that took individuals from novice to completing a 5K in eight weeks, the club has since grown to support members in progressing to longer distances, including 10Ks, half marathons, marathons, and triathlons. Today, the club offers six groups catering to all levels, while hosting its own licensed events.
Consisting of three 5K runs, the series is a fully licensed and Welsh Athletics affiliated event that attracts hundreds of runners of all abilities each year. Participants in this year’s 5K Series can expect to traverse flat, fast courses while soaking in unique views of the Swansea Bay Coastline. Each run promises a memorable experience, catering to both seasoned athletes aiming to boost their ‘Power of 10’ rankings and times, and casual runners seeking to enhance their fitness amidst the beautiful local landscape.
Trophies will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in Junior, Female, Male, and Veteran categories for each race, with an additional trophy presented to the overall winner in each category at the conclusion of the series.
The event also offers an opportunity for running enthusiasts aged 11 and under to participate in a ‘fun run’ – a 1k run around the cenotaph with the possibility of a trophy for those who place 1st, 2nd and 3rd.
All proceeds from the series will be donated to Popham Kidney Support, an organisation dedicated to offering support and improving the quality of life for individuals of all ages facing kidney disease, along with their families and caregivers, across Wales.
Popham Kidney Support has also announced that the 5k Series will be held in partnership with Freedom Leisure, one of the UK’s leading not-for-profit leisure trusts, for the next three years as its corporate sponsor.
Joanne Popham, Chair of Paul Popham Running Club and CEO of Popham Kidney Support, said:
“We are thrilled to be hosting our 5K Series for the sixth consecutive year! These runs provide a wonderful platform for our community to come together, allowing competitive athletes and casual running enthusiasts alike to improve their times, soak in the stunning Swansea Coast views, all while raising money for our charity, Popham Kidney Support.
“We are also thrilled to be partnering with Freedom Leisure for the next three years, as we work together to promote health initiatives that benefit our community! This partnership will help us to expand our reach and impact, making a positive difference in the lives of those affected by kidney disease.
“It’s not too late! Sign-up is still open and welcome to runners of all ages and abilities. Kick off your summer with us! Every contribution helps.”
Gwyn Owen, South Wales Area Manager of Freedom Leisure, said:
“We at Freedom Leisure are proud to partner with Popham Kidney Support for the 5k Series, promoting community wellness and raising awareness of kidney disease across Wales. This partnership is especially meaningful to us as we recognise the importance of supporting such a vital cause. Together, we can make a significant impact on individuals and families affected by kidney disease.”
The runs are set to take place on Wednesday 8th May, Wednesday 12th June and Wednesday 10th July, with the fun runs starting at 6pm and the main races at 7pm. Participants can enter individual races or sign up for all three events in the series.
